Coal mining began in Ohio during the 1810s and 1820s. Most of Ohio's coal mines existed in eastern and southern parts of the state. Prior to the 1810s, most Ohioans heated their homes or operated their machinery with firewood.

Pennsylvania Mining History: Room-and-pillar mines have been active in Pennsylvania’s bituminous coalfields since the late-1700s. Bituminous coal was first mined in Pennsylvania at "Coal Hill" (Mount Washington), just across the Monongahela River from the city of Pittsburgh.

Kentucky History - Coal Around April 13, 1750 Dr. Thomas Walker was the first recorded person to discover and use coal in Kentucky. In 1820 the first commercial mine, known as the "McLean drift bank" opened in Kentucky, near the Green River and Paradise in Muhlenberg County; and we have been mining coal ever since.

Coal Mining in Pennsylvania PA Mining History. Room-and-pillar mines have been active in Pennsylvania's bituminous coalfields since the late-1700s. Bituminous coal was first mined in Pennsylvania at "Coal Hill" (Mount Washington), just across the Monongahela River from the city of Pittsburgh.